Raila receives morale boost from Mudavadi and Mombasa governor ahead of crucial AUC debate
By Martin Oduor, December 13, 2024
As Raila Odinga prepares to take the stage at the Mjadala Afrika, a high-stakes debate for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat, key Kenyan leaders have expressed their unwavering support.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi extended his best wishes, emphasizing Raila’s distinguished position in the Pan-African dialogue.
“As former Prime Minister Raila Odinga steps onto the stage for the Africa Leadership Debate (Mjadala Afrika), I send my best wishes to him as he prepares to engage his esteemed opponents in the race for the African Union Commission Chairperson seat,” Mudavadi said.
Highlighting the competitive nature of the event, Mudavadi added; “In this spirited debate, Raila Odinga will meet two distinguished contenders: Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.”
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir also shared a heartfelt goodwill message, reflecting on Raila’s Pan-African vision and leadership legacy.
“As you prepare to present your vision and priorities for the future of Africa during the highly anticipated Mjadala Afrika debate in Addis Ababa, we extend our unwavering support and best wishes to you, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. Your lifelong dedication to Pan-Africanism and your dynamic 10-point agenda are a testament to your commitment to realizing the aspirations of Agenda 2063, he said.
Governor Nassir lauded Raila’s agenda, which focuses on economic transformation, intra-African trade, infrastructure development, and climate action.
Adding that; “We are confident that your vision for economic transformation, intra-African trade, infrastructure development, financial independence for the AU, gender equity, agricultural transformation, climate action, youth empowerment, digital innovation, and continental integration will resonate across the continent.
The Mombasa governor further told Raila that his debate participation highlights Kenya’s contribution to Africa’s growth and wished him success in championing a transformative agenda for the continent.
“Your participation in this debate not only elevates the conversation on Africa’s future but also showcases Kenya’s enduring contribution to the African continent’s growth and prosperity. Best of luck as you take the stage this evening to champion the transformative agenda our continent deserves,” he said.
Goodwill message for H.E @RailaOdinga #RailaForAfrica 🌍 pic.twitter.com/3Li6C68GWg
— Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (@A_S_Nassir) December 13, 2024
AUC debate
The Mjadala Afrika debate, set to take place on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, marks a pivotal moment in the campaign for the AUC Chairperson role.
Raila will share the stage with three other candidates: Mahmoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti, Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar, and Anil Gayan from Mauritius.
The debate, which begins at 7:00 pm Eastern Africa Time (EAT), will be broadcast live across the continent in six official AU languages – English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swahili.
Raila’s 10-point agenda, centred on Agenda 2063, seeks to address Africa’s most pressing challenges, including youth empowerment, gender equity, and digital innovation.
The televised debate will provide a platform for Raila and his competitors to articulate their visions for a united and prosperous Africa.
As Raila Odinga takes the stage, he carries not just his political aspirations but also the weight of Kenya’s contributions to the Pan-African agenda.
His participation is a testament to the nation’s active role in shaping the future of the continent.
Kenyan leaders and citizens will be watching closely as Raila represents the country in this critical discourse. For many, his leadership and vision symbolize the aspirations of a connected and progressive Africa.